Gabapentin

Brand names

• Neurontin

Usage

To control certain kinds of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. Gabapentin is often prescribed in combination with another anticonvulsant medication.

How it works

The mechanism of action is not well understood. It is believed that gabapentin inhibits activity in certain parts of the brain and suppresses the abnormal firing of neurons that causes seizures.

Side effects

Serious

Fever, sore throat, swollen glands, red or purple point like rash on the skin or mucous membranes, blistering or peeling skin lesions, mouth sores, easy bruising, paleness, weakness, confusion, lethargy, or seizures may be a sign of a potentially fatal blood disorder (aplastic anemia) or other complication.

Common

Fatigue, dizziness, sedation, clumsiness or unsteadiness, unusual eye movements, blurred or altered vision, nausea, vomiting, tremor.

Less common

Diarrhea, muscle aches or weakness, dry mouth, headache, sleep disturbances, irritability, slurred speech. There are numerous additional side effects associated with the use of this medicament; consult your doctor if you are concerned about any adverse or unusual reactions.

Possible interactions

Other medicaments:

Gabapentin taken concurrently with:

• antacids (various) may lower beneficial effects.
• cimetidine(Tagamet) may increase blood levels of gabapentin.
• phenytoin (Dilantin) or fosphenytoin (Cerebyx) may lead to phenytoin or fosphenytoin toxicity.

Herbal medicines or minerals:

Ma huang may cause increased blood pressure and excessive sympathetic stimulation. Ginseng, eleuthero root, hawthorn, saw palmetto, goldenseal and licorice may also cause increased blood pressure.

Alcohol:

Use extreme caution. Alcohol (in large quantities or with continual use) may reduce effectiveness in preventing seizures.

Discontinuation:

This medicament must not be discontinued abruptly. Sudden withdrawal can precipitate severe and repeated seizures. If this medicament is to be discontinued, gradual reduction in dose should be made. Discuss this with your doctor.

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